The President of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Alhassan Yahya Abdul, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to repositioning the International Institute of Journalism (IIJ) as a globally competitive centre of excellence for journalism training in Nigeria.
Comrade Abdul made the remarks on Friday during the inaugural congress of the IIJ Alumni Association held at the IIJ premises in Jahi, Abuja. The event gathered alumni, NUJ leadership, and key stakeholders to discuss critical issues affecting the institute’s future, including accreditation, institutional autonomy, infrastructural renewal, and academic reforms.
The NUJ President commended the alumni for convening at a pivotal moment in the institute’s history and highlighted that revitalising IIJ formed a core part of his campaign promises. He assured that steps were already underway to fulfill these commitments, including efforts to secure full accreditation from the National Universities Commission (NUC), which is currently suspended nationwide. Abdul noted that accreditation is essential for accessing Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) interventions and stressed ongoing discussions to update curricula, strengthen academic programs, and introduce new courses in line with global standards.
He also announced plans for comprehensive rebranding and restructuring of IIJ, covering staffing, faculty development, infrastructure, and institutional image. On journalists’ welfare, Abdul revealed that the NUJ is finalising a healthcare insurance scheme and a Media Enhancement Bill that would soon be presented to the National Assembly. Efforts are also ongoing to secure certification for IIJ Television and Radio stations.
Addressing concerns about institutional affiliation, Abdul clarified that IIJ remained affiliated with the University of Maiduguri and urged graduates to collect their certificates promptly, warned against misinformation.
In his welcome address, the Patron of the IIJ Alumni Association, Maj. Prof. A. A. Ambosun (Rtd.), highlighted the urgent need for reforms, including accreditation, autonomy from the NUJ Secretariat, establishment of functional media outlets, a modern library, and the appointment of a competent Governing Board. He also called for strategic partnerships with TETFUND, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations.
Mr. Reuben Okala, President of the IIJ Alumni Association, expressed gratitude to the NUJ President for his attendance and pledged alumni support for the proposed reforms.
The inaugural congress concluded with a unified commitment from alumni, NUJ leadership, and stakeholders to work collaboratively to secure accreditation, strengthen governance, and restore IIJ’s status as a leading journalism institution in Nigeria and beyond.
